A deranged homemade energy bar can survive 15+ miles of hiking and still taste delicious upon returning home!

I have not one, but TWO recipes for you today. I have tried both of these myself and can vouch for their simplistic excellence. The first recipe was actually a favorite at our recent winter camping trip to Maine.

I got these recipes from Jodie Sonnon (my coach, Scott Sonnon’s, wife) and Steven Hogg (a friend and fellow CST Instructor). Thanks guys!

I love these homemade energy bars for many reasons:

1) They come with the kitchen-dummy seal of approval - anyone can cook these (even me!). Seriously, you can throw these things together in 30 minutes or less (it might take longer the first time if you’re OCD in the kitchen, like I am. In fact, my wife will catch me just staring into an empty pot on occasion). The step-by-step instructions are not complicated, so no cooking expertise needed.

2) They’re delicious - my regular readers know that I love love love good FOOD (see here if you’re not convinced). Not only are these bars easy to make, they’re delicious, too. And I mean that – everyone who has tried them – adults and children have remarked at how tasty they are. I expect nothing less from all the meals I make, and I would never recommend you eat something that isn’t delicious AND nutritious. Speaking of nutrition…

3) They’re jam-packed with nutrients that you need and many foods are lacking – Take a look at the ingredients and you’ll know what I mean… nuts, seeds, dried fruit – all-natural whole foods, and no supplements here!

4) They pack and store well - These aren’t baked. Instead, they harden as they are cooled, and they don’t require refrigeration after they’ve hardened (unless you live somewhere very warm). They won’t melt at room temperature and all 16 bars survived our 3-day winter camping trip no problemo (actually, that’s not… entirely true. Most were sacrificed to the tummy gods – the “chosen” ones).

So what are these bars best used for?

• Pre or post-workout snack
• In-between meals snack
• On-the-road snack
• As an extra source of calories during a bulking phase (did I mention they’re nutrient DENSE!)
• Satisfy that sweet tooth with a nutritious option
• Dessert

So, there you have it – they’re easy, delicious, nutritious, and practical, too. Here are the recipes…
Continue reading Homemade Energy Bars Recipe